When i was really ill, i didn't answer the phone at all, but waited till it stopped ringing then would phone 1471 to find out the number which just called me, sometimes i was even too scared to phone back even to friends, now i do answer the phone, but if it is a cold caller i just say 'no' and put the phone down, (then shake and feel uneasy for quite a while) I still have difficulties initiating a phone call, even when the person is expecting me to call!
I really do not understand why i find phones so difficult, I am quite confident talking to people face to face as long as it is about anything except me.
I hate asking for help too, often thinking i should be able to do it myself or that the person is too busy with their own things for me to bother them.